Power outages don't send advance notice. Whether it's a hurricane, winter storm, wildfire, or unexpected grid failure, the difference between prepared and unprepared comes down to one thing: having reliable backup power on hand. At Portlandia Electric Supply, our lineup of 31 portable generators from industry leader Generac gives homeowners, contractors, and outdoor enthusiasts everything they need to stay powered — no matter the situation.
What Is a Portable Generator?
A portable generator is a movable power source that converts fuel (gasoline, propane, diesel, or solar energy) into electricity on demand. Unlike permanently wired standby systems, portable generators can be stored in a garage, loaded into a truck, or set up within minutes at a campsite or job site. They range in output from compact 1,600-watt inverter units to heavy-duty 9,400-watt workhorses capable of running an entire home through a multi-day outage.
Portable generators are one of the most practical and affordable investments you can make for emergency preparedness. A quality unit costs far less than the food spoilage, hotel stays, and property damage that a multi-day power outage can cause.
Generac: The Brand Behind Our Generator Lineup
Every portable generator we carry at Portlandia Electric Supply comes from Generac — America's #1 selling generator brand. Generac has built its reputation over decades by engineering dependable, fuel-efficient machines for residential and commercial use. Here's a breakdown of the Generac series we stock:
GP Series — The Dependable Workhorse
The Generac GP Series is the go-to choice for homeowners who want reliable backup power without overcomplicating things. Models like the GP3600 (starting at $496.51) and the GP8000E (from $1,149.00) deliver straightforward gasoline power with electric start options and plenty of outlets. These are excellent picks for powering essential appliances — refrigerator, sump pump, window AC, and lighting — during an outage.
PM Series — Pro-Grade Power
The Generac PM Series covers a wide wattage range, from 3,800W to 9,400W, with models available in gasoline, dual-fuel (gas + propane), and CO-protected configurations. Key models in our inventory:
- Generac PM3800 49ST CSA — $513.05 | Entry-level for essential backup
- Generac PM4500 CO 49ST — $496.51 | CO-sense protection for safety
- Generac PM4500 DF 49ST — $811.22 | Dual-fuel flexibility (gas + propane)
- Generac PM7500 DF 49ST — $942.10 | Dual-fuel at 7,500W, ideal for larger homes
- Generac PM9400E 49ST — $1,129.36 | High-output with electric start for whole-home use
PMi Inverter Series — Clean, Quiet Power
The Generac PM2000i and PM3000i inverter generators produce clean, stable sine wave power that's safe for sensitive electronics like laptops, medical devices, and smart TVs. They're significantly quieter than conventional generators and more fuel-efficient, thanks to automatic throttle adjustment. Perfect for neighborhoods where noise ordinances apply, RV parks, or campsite comfort.
- Generac PM2000i Inverter — $557.88
- Generac PM3000i Inverter — $893.83
GB Series — Battery-Powered Portable Generators
For those who want zero emissions, zero noise, and zero fuel costs, the Generac GB1000 and GB2000 battery-powered portable generators are a game changer. These units store energy from a wall outlet or solar panels and deliver clean power wherever you need it — completely silently. They're ideal for indoor emergency use, camping, and powering electronics with no exhaust risk.
- Generac GB1000 1.6kW — $1,178.82
- Generac GB2000 1.6kW — $1,795.40
XD Series — Diesel for Heavy-Duty Demands
The Generac XD5000E is our heavy-duty diesel portable generator, delivering 5,000 watts with the fuel efficiency and torque advantages that diesel engines are known for. At $4,541.47, it's the right choice for contractors, farms, or businesses that need extended run times and rock-solid reliability in demanding conditions.
How to Choose the Right Portable Generator
With 31 models to choose from, the right pick depends on a few key factors:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Power Output | Add up the starting watts of all devices you need to run simultaneously |
| Fuel Type | Gas for maximum output; dual-fuel for flexibility; battery/solar for indoor/quiet use |
| Runtime | Larger fuel tanks = longer runtime; battery units limited by charge capacity |
| Noise Level | Inverter and battery models are quietest; conventional generators run louder |
| CO Protection | Look for CO-sense auto-shutoff if using near enclosed spaces |
| Portability | Wheel kits and fold-down handles matter for heavy units over 150 lbs |
Quick Sizing Guide:
- Essential circuits only (fridge, lights, phone charging): 3,000–4,500W
- Most of your home (HVAC, appliances, electronics): 7,500–9,400W
- RV or camping comfort: 2,000–3,000W inverter generator
- Indoor/sensitive equipment: Battery-powered GB Series or inverter model
Portable Generator Safety Tips
Generators are life-saving tools — but only when used correctly. Follow these best practices:
- Never run a gas generator indoors or in a garage — carbon monoxide (CO) is odorless and deadly; always operate at least 20 feet from doors and windows
- Use a transfer switch or interlock kit when connecting to home wiring — never backfeed into the utility grid
- Check oil level before every use — most generators shut off automatically when oil is low, but it's best to verify manually
- Store fuel safely — use approved containers and add fuel stabilizer for long-term storage
- Run your generator under load for 30 minutes every 3 months to keep it ready when you need it most
Pair Your Generator with Solar for Maximum Resilience
A portable generator is a powerful standalone tool — but when combined with a solar + battery storage system, it becomes part of an unstoppable energy independence strategy. Use solar panels and lithium batteries as your primary power source during normal operations, and let the generator handle extended cloudy periods or high-demand scenarios. Portlandia Electric Supply carries a full range of solar panels, inverters, and LiFePO4 battery systems to complement your generator investment.
Ready to find the right generator for your home, business, or next adventure?
Explore our full lineup of Portable Generators at Portlandia Electric Supply. Our team is here to help you size the right unit for your needs — call us at (888) 876-0007 or email connect@portlandiaelectric.supply.